58 RUSSIAN ADVENTURERS. 



indeed, when their descent was intercepted by 

 foxes, or burgheimsters, which were always on 

 the watch for their prey. 



We noticed many parts of the surface of the 

 snow stained with a deep red substance by the 

 little auk; but such places, though similar in 

 colour, could scarcely be said to bear any re- 

 semblance to the representation of the red snow 

 of Baffin's Bay.* 



We had been in possession of the anchorage 

 a few days only, when we were agreeably sur- 

 prised at the appearance of a strange boat 

 pulling towards the ship. On a nearer ap- 

 proach, we found that she belonged to some 

 Russian adventurers, who were engaged in the 

 collection of peltry and morses' teeth. They 

 appeared equally astonished at the sight of our 

 vessels, but, after scrutinizing us awhile, they 

 took courage and went on board the Do- 

 rothea, where, by the well-known mode of signs, 

 they had no difficulty in communicating their 

 desire for some spirits ; Captain Buchan gave 

 them a kind reception, and supplied them with 

 whatever they wanted ; in return for which, 

 they sent on board the following day a side 

 of venison in excellent condition. 



Being desirous of gaining further information 

 * See Ross's Voyage, 1818. 



